Celebrate the start of the holiday season at The Distillery Winter Village, Toronto’s iconic Christmas market. Wander through historic cobblestone streets illuminated by thousands of twinkling lights, browse seasonal vendor cabins, enjoy festive treats and watch Santa lead the countdown to the lighting of the spectacular Christmas tree.
Families can also discover Santa’s Village, holiday performances and immersive Christmas experiences.
WHAT TO EXPECT IN THE WINTER VILLAGE
CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING: Join Santa for the countdown to the lighting of the iconic centrepiece Christmas tree on opening night.
FESTIVE LIGHTS AND DECORATIONS: Explore the historic Distillery District, transformed with twinkling lights, seasonal decorations, cosy fireplaces and holiday photo opportunities.
SANTA'S VILLAGE: Meet Santa, explore nostalgic holiday displays and visit the letter-writing station at Soulpepper Theatre.
IMMERSIVE NUTCRACKER EXPERIENCE: Discover an interactive digital experience featuring games and a magical journey inspired by the Nutcracker. Separate admission is required.
HOLIDAY SHOPPING: Browse seasonal vendor cabins featuring gifts, crafts and products from local Canadian makers, alongside more than 90 year-round shops.
FESTIVE FOODS & DRINKS: Sample seasonal treats, speciality hot chocolate and festive food and drinks.
LIVE ENTERTAINMENT: Enjoy carollers, live music and special performances throughout the season.
OPENING NIGHT AND TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY
- Date: Thursday, November 12, 2026
- Time: 6:00 PM
- Admission: Ticket required
- Tickets: Starting at $16 + HST and service charges
- Children: Ages 9 and under enter free and do not require a ticket.
Join the opening-night celebration as thousands of visitors count down with Santa to illuminate the Christmas tree and officially kick off the holiday season. Profits from opening-night ticket sales support the Anishnawbe Health Foundation, Soulpepper Theatre Company and the Toronto Star Santa Claus Fund.
EVENT INFO
- Market Dates: November 12, 2026-January 3, 2027
- Location: The Distillery Historic District, 55 Mill Street, Toronto, ON
- Admission: Free during designated non-ticketed periods; tickets are required during opening night and specified peak periods.
- Booking: Tickets must be purchased online in advance, subject to availability.
- Christmas Day: Closed.
- Opening night is a ticketed event, and advance booking is recommended.
- Admission is free before 4:00 PM daily and all day Monday-Wednesday
through December 13, except when otherwise specified. Thursday evenings in November are also free, except opening night.
- Tickets are required from 4:00 PM on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays; Thursdays in December; and daily from December 14-31.
- On ticketed days, visitors must enter before 4:00 PM to qualify for free admission.
- Children aged 9 and under do not require a ticket.
- Tickets are non-refundable. Check the ticket terms for exchange options.
- Santa’s schedule and the full entertainment programme will be announced closer to the event.